Writing About Life

Night Rider

He had drawn the night watch. Twenty years herding cattle for so many spreads, he couldn’t remember all their names. He now rode for the Lazy Z. He hadn’t liked the owner from the time he signed on, but he was flat broke and couldn’t be choosy. Mr.Gage was a green horn from back East. He did not understand the importance of getting the most experienced cowboys and having enough horses on the drive. He was trying to get off cheap, but would find out the hard way when he lost a good part of the herd on the trail. They should be changing horses more often during the day instead of overtiring them. The horses were always loyal to their riders and gave them all that was asked. Tom looked sadly into their eyes, ” Ok boys, whose going to ride with me tonight? ”

I really like this! I believe your protagonist is a very experienced cowboy and knows what he’s talking about. I think Mr. Gage would be wise to follow his advice. Great story! I have one correction if you don’t mind. In the 3rd sentence I believe that “road” should be “rode.” I enjoyed your story very much and thank you for participating in FFfAW Challenge!

Great story..good example of the experienced not being utilized to the max. His employer has the means to make everything work , but he lets his -know it all – attitude or stubbornness get in the way of real progress.

Thank You. Yes I have heard that from another blogger, that South Africans spell differently. The British and Americans do as well. I think it is very interesting and I always get a bit of a kick out of seeing a different spelling. Like characterisation instead of characterization.(My spell checker is going crazy right now.)

Good story, Deborah. It would be hard to be experienced and see all the mistakes being made by a beginner, a “greenhorn.” I hope things work out well for the cowboy in your story. Well done. 🙂 — Suzanne